Some of the best hula in the Islands will be on display today at "Ke Alana o Moanalua ... the Awakening of Moanalua," a free event at Moanalua Gardens for the whole family.

Alika Jamile, Moanalua Gardens Foundation president, said this year's festival is enriched with more hula protocol and draws on archival resources for added authenticity.

"The opening ceremonies will include special oli (chants) passed on from Namakahelu, the last chantress of Moanalua," he said.

The opening also marks the first time the Royal Order of Kamehameha I will participate in the ceremony.

The festival was originally founded in 1865 by Prince Lot Kapuaiwa during his reign as King Kamehameha V to defend the sovereignty of the Kingdom of Hawai'i.

Nine halau will participate this year, including Robert Cazimero's and Leina'ala Kalama Heine's halau, believed to be the first time both will be at the same festival. Several musical groups will also perform, including a special noon concert by the Royal Hawaiian Band.

The festival also features Hawaiian games, Hawaiian crafters and an interactive poi-pounding demonstration.

Modern and traditional hula, chants and musical performances will be done with authentic instruments.

Visitors can bring their own chairs and mats, and food will be available for purchase. No commercial photography is allowed.

The event is free and open to the public, but attendees are encouraged to purchase a $5 souvenir button as a donation to help defray festival costs. Limited-edition T-shirts will also be sold, with proceeds benefitting Moanalua Gardens Foundation programs.

Free parking is available at Moanalua Elementary School.